The family of Toby Manifold, a young man who tragically lost his life in a workplace incident in Lara, have launched a fundraiser to honour his memory and promote workplace safety. Toby, a beloved son, brother, and friend, died in an accident at a local business in late 2024. His family has now started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for a memorial and to support safety advocacy groups.
A Life Cut Short
Toby Manifold, 24, was described by his family as a hardworking and kind-hearted individual who loved his job. He was working at a Lara-based company when the tragic incident occurred. The exact circumstances of the accident are still under investigation by WorkSafe Victoria. His family has expressed their devastation and called for greater awareness of workplace safety.
Fundraiser Details
The fundraiser, titled ‘Toby’s Legacy: A Fund for Safety’, aims to raise $50,000. The funds will be used to establish a permanent memorial at the site of the accident, as well as to support organisations that provide safety training and resources for workers in high-risk industries. The family has also pledged to donate a portion of the proceeds to a charity focused on mental health support for families affected by workplace tragedies.
In a statement, Toby’s mother, Sarah Manifold, said: “We want to ensure that no other family has to go through what we have. Toby loved his work, and we want his legacy to be one of change. We hope this fundraiser will help prevent future accidents and support those who have been affected.”
Community Support
The Geelong community has rallied behind the Manifold family, with many local businesses and residents donating to the cause. A fundraising event is also being planned for later this month, with proceeds going to the campaign. Local MP for Lara, John Eren, expressed his condolences and urged the community to support the initiative.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for the Manifold family and the entire Lara community. Toby’s story is a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety. I encourage everyone to contribute to this worthy cause,” Mr Eren said.
Workplace Safety Concerns
The incident has reignited discussions about workplace safety in the Geelong region. According to WorkSafe data, there were over 2,000 serious workplace injuries in the area last year, with several fatalities. Advocates are calling for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and more comprehensive training programs.
Dr. Emily Roberts, a workplace safety expert at Deakin University, said: “Tragic events like this highlight the need for a culture shift in how we approach safety at work. It’s not just about compliance, but about fostering an environment where workers feel empowered to speak up about hazards.”
The Manifold family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and hopes that Toby’s story will lead to lasting change. To donate, visit the GoFundMe page ‘Toby’s Legacy: A Fund for Safety’.
